RIOJA ON TWO WHEELS
La Rioja is a region framed by the undulating lines of the Cantabrian mountains of northern Spain, dotted with ancient hill towns and home to the endless vineyards of nearly 700 wineries. Most of the biggest names in Spanish wine reside in La Rioja, where dedicated winemakers strive to squeeze bold, velvety magic from the humble Tempranillo grape and manage to do so with unparalleled success. La Rioja looks lived-in, but its worn Romanesque facades stand fearlessly beside the wave of avant-garde architecture currently sweeping the region.
Modern Rioja is thriving, with world-class winery tours, elegant tasting rooms and dedicated, enthusiastic winemakers eager to share their passion. It would be easy enough to jump on a tour bus, or hire a car and careen through Rioja in a day or two. However, seeing this glorious region through a window greatly diminishes the experience. To truly immerse yourself, you have to get on your bike.
To cycle in Rioja means interaction. The scent of the warm earth, the wide-open vistas, the smiles and helpful directions from friendly locals. Cycling means taking the day at your own pace, maybe stopping for a long
